One of the most important features to look for in an MSW program is whether it’s accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). So if it’s important, why bother with a non-CSWE MSW program?
The answer to that question is a bit complicated, but this guide will sift through the confusion and help you understand the limited value of a non-accredited MSW program. More importantly, you’ll learn why many people consider a non-CSWE MSW to be worthless.
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Why CSWE Accreditation is Important
First, it’s important to understand why CSWE accreditation is an essential part of an MSW program. There are a host of reasons:
- It speaks to the educational value and rigor of the program.
- It ensures the curriculum is aligned with critical social work competencies.
- It prepares you for high levels of scientific inquiry and practice in social work.
- It demonstrates to the public that the program is trustworthy and accountable.
- It indicates an ongoing commitment by the program and school to be in compliance with educational policies, accreditation standards, and best practices.
Furthermore, most states require you to have a CSWE-accredited MSW to be eligible for licensure (though, graduating from a CSWE-accredited program does not guarantee you’ll get a license or a job).
Why a Non-CSWE MSW Program Could Have Value
Despite the importance of CSWE accreditation, non-CSWE MSW programs can have some value:
- You gain valuable knowledge and skills applicable to many different social work settings.
- You can use your advanced knowledge and skills to change social work careers or advance in your current position.
- Some states offer alternative pathways to licensure for applicants with a non-CSWE-accredited MSW.
For example, according to the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB), Virginia offers an alternative pathway for clinical social worker license applicants whose degrees are not from CSWE-accredited programs. You must complete additional specific post-graduate coursework and satisfy more stringent eligibility requirements to obtain licensure. Still, it is an option.
Why a Non-CSWE MSW Program Could Be Worthless
To be clear, pursuing a non-CSWE-accredited MSW means you will have to work harder and complete more tasks to attain the same level of licensure as someone with a degree from an accredited program. If, that is, the state in which you seek licensure doesn’t require a CSWE-accredited MSW in the first place.
This is just one issue with non-accredited programs, though. Before enrolling in a non-CSWE-accredited MSW, consider the following:
- Non-CSWE-accredited programs are not required to have field experiences. Without this component, you won’t have an opportunity to gain valuable supervised experience during the program.
- Credits earned from a non-CSWE-accredited program likely will not be accepted if you transfer to a program that is accredited by the CSWE.
- You get what you pay for. Non-accredited programs aren’t held to the same high standards of those endorsed by the CSWE.
It’s also worth considering the perceived value of your degree to others. As noted earlier, graduates of CSWE-accredited programs have a stamp of approval that puts the public’s mind at ease. CSWE accreditation is the gold standard for social work programs, and graduating from one of those programs is no small feat. When people seek the services of a social worker, they want to know the person assisting them has received the best possible education.
Weigh All the Features of MSW Programs Before Enrolling
The accreditation status of an MSW program isn’t the only factor to consider when vetting potential programs. You should also explore features like:
- Affordability
- Type of course delivery (e.g., synchronous, asynchronous)
- Program length
- Program reputation
- Faculty experience and accolades
- Class sizes
- Curriculum and field experience requirements
Most of these features are extremely similar among CSWE-accredited programs. The most variation is in the cost of the programs and the types of course delivery. Non-CSWE-accredited programs can be all over the place on these metrics and many others, though.
Should You Enroll in a Non-CSWE-Accredited MSW Program?
At the end of the day, a CSWE-accredited MSW is far more valuable to you now and in the future than a non-CSWE-accredited MSW. Does that make a non-accredited degree worthless, though?
As discussed earlier, there is some value to be derived from a non-accredited MSW. However, it’s not enough value to warrant enrolling in one. If you want to open the most doors for your career and provide the utmost level of service to your clients, you should enroll in a CSWE-accredited MSW program.
There are hundreds of CSWE-accredited MSW programs available at campuses nationwide. A growing number of accredited programs are online, too. Set yourself up for success by avoiding non-accredited programs in favor of enrolling in one with CSWE’s stamp of approval.
